Kearney, who was treated for a calf injury, returned to full training last week and played for 60 minutes in the challenge game against Cobh Ramblers on Sunday last and manager Damien Richardson will monitor his recovery with interest.

John O’Flynn also returned to training last week after treatment for a groin injury. O’Flynn’s season has been disrupted by regular injury and a fully-fit O’Flynn would be a big asset to Cork.

Brian O’Callaghan’s run at centre-back was interrupted by a hamstring. He too has also returned to training and will be challenging for selection for a game that provides Cork with a last opportunity of a major trophy this season.

Cork are also due to be without full-back Neal Horgan because he has to serve a one-match suspension. They and Longford Town are hoping to persuade the FAI to postpone on sympathetic grounds the suspension that Horgan and Longford’s Gary Deegan are due to serve.

A minute's silence will be observed before the game as a mark of respect to Longford club president, Peter Keenan who died during the week.